James has over thirty-six years of experience in the environmental protection field. His experience includes, overseeing a regional state drinking water program; managing a 38.6 square mile watershed area with a 412 billion gallon drinking water reservoir a primary source of water for the metropolitan Boston area; drafting drinking water regulations and policies; chairing the Massachusetts Board of Certification of Operators of Drinking Water Supply Facilities; managing regulatory programs, enforcing federal and state regulations; developing and conducting training programs; and developing programs for cross-connection control. James was responsible for managing the day-to-day operations for a municipal department of public works. He has taught a college level environmental science course. James has served as the treasurer for a national certification association and was instrumental in redefining the examination process for drinking water operators. He was involved in developing land acquisition plans and the drafting of several grants. He has served on many boards and committees.